Facts on Menstruation

1. Missed Periods May Indicate Pregnancy

Regular menstruation cycles tell women everything is OK. Sometimes, even though you know you're not pregnant, your period might be late. A late or missed period might be easily explained away by stress or mild illness, but it also could be caused by something more serious, like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or an ectopic pregnancy, which is a pregnancy in the fallopian tube. Always tell your gynecologist about any missed periods so she can rule out any more serious conditions. If you are sexually active, your doctor will do a blood pregnancy test which is where she checks your "beta" levels. This is the pregnancy hormone, and it shows up in your blood first then later excretes in your urine--hence the reason home pregnancy tests use urine samples.

2. When Does Menstruation Begin?

You may wonder when you should start menstruation. Girls in the United States tend to start their menstrual cycle earlier and earlier, which some attribute to the phytoestrogens in our diet. The average is 12, but some girls start when they are as young as nine and as old as 16. If you haven't started your period by the time you turn 16, should make an appointment with a gynecologist.

3. A Cramp In Your Style

No one likes the cramping feeling you get the first few days of menstruation. Several great products are now available to help with the pain of your menstrual cycle. Heat and heating pads work great for some, while getting up and active helps others. Of course, there are pain relievers you can take as well. Although some cramping is normal, menstruation should not be excruciating. If you are in tears over your period, it's time to give your doctor a call.

4. Period Protection Options

Over the last 15 years or so, manufacturers have made some great advances in menstruation products. Sanitary napkins are no longer thick diaper-like pads but now use a special gel and are thin. You also have the option of using tampons, with or without an applicator, and for those environmentally conscious people, you have reusable sanitary napkins found in bigger whole food grocery stores.

5. Heed Menstruation Warning Signs

Several things can go wrong when yu are on your period and before and after your period as well. If you experience any of these warning signs, see your gynecologist right away. If you have pain in your lower abdomen, your doctor may check for abnormal masses or ectopic pregnancy. If you have abnormal or excessive bleeding, your doctor might check for anemia. If you are sick after using a tampon, you may have toxic shock syndrome, which can be fatal. All of these symptoms, and anything else out of the ordinary, warrants a call to your doctor.